Because I have nothing better to do tonight—I have no laundry, no laundry at all, and no get-together at my house in 48 hours and certainly no dishes in my sink to wash—I’m going to pretend I’m an advice columnist and answer a small handful of questions I’ve received recently. See, here’s the thing: I’m an isolated, reclusive country wife in the middle of nowhere who just happened to start a blog in my pajamas one day over three years ago. And because of this, I have all the answers.

It’s true. It’s just that nobody knows it yet.

Me included.

(I’ll post one question and answer now, and add a few more here throughout the next hour or two. If you have a pressing life problem or situation, feel free to leave it in the Comments section. )

____________________________________

Dear Pioneer Woman:

I’ve got a older brother who’s a orthopedic surgeon, and who’s a big pain. Are all older brothers pains? Or is it because he’s a doctor and has Big Headitis? Can I borrow your pond to give him swimming lessons with cement shoes on? OR, would you like to have him? For free? I’ll even pay postage.

Love,
Sick of My Sibling

Dear Sib:

I feel your pain, child. My older brother—well, scratch that. Both my brothers are older. I should say, my older brother who’s actually taller than me is a real pain. He still treats me like I’m his annoying younger sister, and is pretty much all the big brother I can handle. Unfortunately, he’s really, really sweet sometimes. He knows everyone’s birthday, how much they weighed when they were born, and what time they were born. But he also knows everything, especially everything I don’t know. And he even knows everything I do know, and he knew it first. But he does make really good chicken tacos. So there’s that. But if he ever wants to reach me, he’ll call me thirty times in a row, and no…I’m not talking about my developmentally disabled brother Mike, who calls me only twenty times in a row. I’m talking about my normal-by-society’s-standards, very tall, hardheaded, sweet lug of a big brother.

I’m talking about this guy:

So…what was your question?

_____________________________________

Dear Pioneer Woman:

I broke up with my boyfriend of just over a year a week ago. I had to end it because he is so emotionally immature. While only 1 year younger than me, the way he behaves makes me feel like a parent and he’s the child. He took me for granted, broke my heart (hooked up [I don't know to what extent] with a girl 3 months into our new relationship), made me feel bad for yawning in front of him at the end of a long Friday (because he wanted to go out and party) and put me down for getting into therapy (he said I was being brainwashed.)

While the obvious question might be why was I with him in the first place and the next: why did I take him back after he broke my heart, those questions require more bandwidth than you have access to. My question is, can spoiled, emotionally immature men (boys, really) ever grow up? I miss him so much because in spite of everything I told you, we did have a lot of fun together and we were so compatible in the beginning––although I’m discovering that was because I was always willing to do things his way, when I started to assert myself, not so compatible anymore––and there is still a wicked spark of electricity between us. I’m dead set on not getting back together with him and moving on, but do you have any advice for me on how to make it easier on myself? To top it off, we work together and have to see each other at least once a week.

Love,
Slave to the Spark

Dear Sparky,

You did not mention your age, but there is a lot of truth to the fact that many men take longer to mature emotionally. It’s been said that men under the age of thirty, as a whole, are basically a totally different species and should not be messed with until they’ve been allowed to ripen. I happen to think this is a sweeping generalization—I know many caring, respectful, evolved males in their twenties. I would even go one step further and offer that many women in their twenties have not yet evolved to a height of emotional maturity. I was a freak when I lived in California.

So now that we’ve stripped away the differences in gender, let’s get down to the nitty gritty. HE HOOKED UP WITH A GIRL THREE MONTHS INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIP? Lawsie mercy, woman. Get thy hiney on down the road and don’t look back. Have you lost your marbles?

Question: what does “hooking up” mean, anyway? I’ve never really been clear on that.

Oh, never mind. Please don’t answer that.

In closing, this guy just might eventually mature and evolve. I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt! It just won’t be with you in the picture.

(Man, I’m feeling direct tonight. I’m thinking it’s hormone-related.)

____________________________________

Dear P-Widdy-Dub-Diddy,

I’m single and I’d like to get married and have a bunch of kids. Unfortunately, the fish ain’t bitin’. What can I do?

Love,
Yearning in Yonkers

Dear Yonk,

Here’s what you do. Make big plans for your own life that have absolutely nothing to do with meeting a man, getting married, and having kids. Decide to move to another large city. Zero in on apartments and start planning for graduate school. If you could pack some boxes and suitcases full of your belongings, that would be effective too. Look forward to remaining single for several years. Then, go to a smoky bar one night to meet some high school friends, and have absolutely no plans whatsoever for meeting anyone of the opposite sex, because that’s just not your focus in life right now. I guarantee you’ll meet someone that night.

Then he’ll marry you and get you pregnant on your honeymoon.

But seriously, my sad tale aside. What I’m trying to say is this: don’t go to great lengths to look for it or make it happen. Because that, my dearie, is usually when it will happen.

(Another thing you could try is to pray up a husband. I’ve known a couple of gals who’ve found the man of their dreams that way!)

_________________________________

Dear P.W.

I sometimes feel like I’m about to blow from all the pressures and responsibility on me. I have four kids and love them dearly…but sometimes i feel like I just HAVE to get away for a day or so and recharge. What do you suggest?

Love,
Seeking Solitude

Dear Sol,

Okay, first of all: NORMAL. UNIVERSAL. Any woman with a child—or children—has been there, done that, been there again.

Second: I don’t know the ages of your kids, but let me just suggest something you might not know is available. It’s called bedtime. What time do your kids go to bed? If they’re five or younger, they can go to bed at 7:30 or 8:00—no joke! If they’re older, they can still go to bed at 8:00, and read themselves to sleep. That leaves you a good 2 1/2 to 3 hours to sit. To vege out. To read. To breathe. To talk to your husband, if you have one of those. Never, EVER underestimate the pressure-relieving beauty of a couple of kid-free hours at night.

And don’t spend that time picking up the house and getting work done, no matter how much you want to. You can do that during the day, or just after dinner. Make yourself plop down on the couch the second the kids’ heads hit the pillow, and settle in and enjoy not having to move. The world will continue to turn if you don’t get that other load of laundry done and if you don’t get all the shoes picked up and placed into a straight line by the door.

In addition, I prescribe this, compliments of my mom. Please try it tomorrow and report back to me. It’s like lifeblood being pumped into your veins.

___________________________________

Nearest and Dearest P Dub,

Why does my husband leave every-single-cupboard-door-that-he-touches open? And why does he leave every light on after he leaves the room? OK, maybe I can deal with the light thing. But the doors, ugh! We live on a ranch, in the desert. “Hello! Dust!” I don’t understand. Do I need to chill or does he need to learn to close the daggum doors? Save our marriage, oh wise one.

Dusting in Nevada

Dear NevaDust:

“Do I need to chill or does he need to learn to close the dadgum doors?”

My answer: Yes.

Love,
P-Dub

______________________________

Dear Pioneer Woman,

I’m 6 weeks pregnant. So far, only my hubby and I know. How do I tell my family? (We’re giving my dad a “#1 Grandpa” shirt on his birthday – at 10 weeks, but we don’t have any ideas for anyone else).

Love,
Pregnant in Private

Dear Privy,

Oh my gosh, I’ve always wanted to do this. Okay, here’s what you do: Put away the t-shirt for now. Don’t tell a soul. Start slowly introducing loose fitting tops into your wardrobe. By the time your belly’s really popping out there, you’ll be into the wintertime and you can shield it more easily. The key here is never to tell anyone. Then, when it’s time, just go to the hospital, have the baby, then call your family from the hospital and tell them you’re in the hospital, room 402 (or whatever room you’re in). Then, when they rush to the hospital, all concerned and in a panic, show them your new little bundle of joy and say “Surprise!”

Julie Walker On Thursday, July 2 at 10:23 pm

Why do I love you (and your wit) so much?

3

Cheryl On Thursday, July 2 at 10:24 pm

terrific photo of your brother!

4

Randi On Thursday, July 2 at 10:24 pm

Speaking of pregnant. I’m 6 weeks pregnant. So far only my hubby and I know. How do I tell my family? (we’re giving my dad a “#1 Grandpa” shirt on his birthday – at 10 weeks, but we don’t have any ideas for anyone else).

5

Kristin On Thursday, July 2 at 10:24 pm

Totally off-topic, but if you haven’t heard Kim Richey’s song Wildest Dreams, you should. It would be a nice addition to the Black Heels to Tractor Wheel soundtrack.

Blessings!

6

Sharon On Thursday, July 2 at 10:24 pm

I am a new homeschooling mom, what advice can you give me. The curriculum thing is driving me a little crazy, I just want to make my own curriculum is that possible or just plain crazy? Any input would be appreciated. Thanks P-Dub. My punks are 5 and 4.

7

Nonny On Thursday, July 2 at 10:25 pm

Dear Absofsteel Ree,

My neighbors don’t take care of their kids, at all. They are monsters. Their landlord says he can’t afford to evict them. The monstrous and disrespectful behavior is rubbing off on my five year old. Short of ever letting the kid play outside again, and punishing him till kingdom come, what inventive suggestions do you have to keep my normally good son on the straight and narrow?

Love,
Absoflabbergasted by the neighbor’s kids

8

Cheryl On Thursday, July 2 at 10:25 pm

You must be amazingly efficient. I can’t imagine everything you accomplish. Thanks for sharing your life.

9

Amy Johnson On Thursday, July 2 at 10:25 pm

Do you ever get tired? I mean can’t hold my farts in tired and I wanna cry so leave me alone but don’t leave me alone because that would make me sad but I’m so tired?

Hey there Miss Ree! My husband and I are planning on getting pregnant this summer and are thinking about having a homebirth. What are your thoughts(if you have any on homebirth?

12

Loreina On Thursday, July 2 at 10:28 pm

I have this dog, and well he doesn’t like to listen. I mean he doesn’t do anything bad, but he doesn’t listen either, and he does it on purpose. When you ask him to do something he just looks at you and rolls his eyes like yeah right. I don’t know if it’s because he’s old now and he’s become like an elderly person who thinks they can do whatever they want because they’ve lived so long. He makes me feel like i am dealing with a horribly sarcastic person. How can I get my unenthusiastic, sarcastic dog to listen to me!?

13

Nicole On Thursday, July 2 at 10:30 pm

Dear Abb… er, Pioneer Woman,
When are you going to post the Standard Deviants winners? Just wondering, is all… ;o)

bethany On Thursday, July 2 at 10:31 pm

I don’t have a question, but can I just tell you how much I love your website!?! So much fun! Have a great 4th of July!!!

16

Tracy Krieg On Thursday, July 2 at 10:32 pm

Evening, Ree. You have dogs, so maybe you can help me out. We are trying to train our 12-week old pup to “go” outside. *Most* of the time, he’ll happily go #1 in the grass, but we cannot figure out how to get him to go #2 out there as well. He seems to think my 4-yr-old daughter’s bedroom is the perfect place to perform that particularly duty. Any suggestions?

17

AnnieinOC On Thursday, July 2 at 10:32 pm

Dear Pioneer Woman,

I like to cook on HIGH HEAT. I like the delightful brown bits that form on food when you cook with HIGH HEAT. Sounds like a great day in the neighborhood, right?

The problem is that Mr. Rogers is a neat freak. Mr. Rogers doesn’t like all the grease and smoke that come with HIGH cooking. How do I get Mr. Rogers to be a better neighbor? To let go? To revel in the brown bit goodnes of HIGH cooking and not worry about the layer of grease on top of the microwave?

Who do you call to do all the work ahead of you,,,,,,,and why am I sooo tired. no exclamation marks or anything cause my shift keys just gave up, any answers for that..

19

carolyn w. On Thursday, July 2 at 10:32 pm

P Dub -
My fiance and I are getting married in Austin, Texas (we both attended UT, hook ‘em horns!). However, we are currently living in Spokane, WA while he attends law school. We are planning from afar. Any wedding planning advice?
- C Dub

20

Megan On Thursday, July 2 at 10:34 pm

Dear P-Dub,

Today I went bathing suit shopping and am afraid that I maybe, possibly, quite likely burned my retinas into tiny piles of eyeball ash, which fell upon my new suit. Please advise on the best method for cleaning up such a mess… preferably a method that does not require the wearing of said suit.

Dear Ree, should I take the plunge and get into photography professionally?
P.S. I am terrified of failure.

23

Rachael On Thursday, July 2 at 10:36 pm

Redheads!!!…..I have a six year old daughter and a 3 year old son and no clue about raising redheads. Any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated.

24

Sherrie Ann On Thursday, July 2 at 10:36 pm

Would you, by any chance, be willing to accomodate a mother-daughter duos from S. Texas for a week at your ranch? Maybe a few other duos as well? My 12 year old would fit right in and probably hide somewhere when it was time to leave but it would be the closest she’s gotten to that kind of life in a long time. The child would turn into a horse if only we could find someone to do it =}

My babysitter is a really wonderful, Christian woman that is loving my children for me while I’m at work everyday. But she has NO CONTROL over her own kids and now mine are acting badly when they are over there.

Life is Good On Thursday, July 2 at 10:38 pm

Ree,
I have relatives coming for the holiday weekend and they keep extending out how long they are going to stay. How would you get them to go home without hurting any feelings or claiming your youngest has typhoid fever?

30

Amy On Thursday, July 2 at 10:39 pm

I don’t have a date for the Fourth of July, any ideas of where to look?

I was wondering this today….I have to walk thru duck poo in my yard and I’m thinking you walk thru lots of cow poo. Of course, I leave my shoes at the back door. Do you have the “no shoe” rule in your house?

Randi in Canada On Thursday, July 2 at 10:39 pm

Why can’t I leave the shopping channel alone. I know better but they have such great stuff on there. Speaking of spending when can I buy your Cook Book?

Signed,
Randi

33

Jen On Thursday, July 2 at 10:39 pm

I’m a SAHM considering homeschooling. I have 2 toddlers (age 3 and soon to be 2). Any advice on homeschooling preschoolers? Have you come across any good preschool materials? I’m especially interested in any good resources for rainy day activities since I live in the NE and lately the weather has been treating us like it’s Seattle. Thanks!

34

cybercita On Thursday, July 2 at 10:39 pm

Dear P-Dub,
since you have 2 boys, I’ll ask you…. how in the world do you get little boys to quit being so rough? mine (about to be 3) is constantly trying to rope his sister (6). Or he sits on her head, or he wants to play ball & hits her with the glove, or he wants to brand her & gets too rough… I’m at my wits end!!!! HELP! (of course he is also an adorable, sweet, and loving little boy that loves to play with his sister!).

36

megan On Thursday, July 2 at 10:40 pm

I’m 15 weeks pregnant and even though we tried for a year and went through a miscarriage I am still terrified! I want this baby so much but I’m so scared I’ll be a big fat pregnancy/mothering failure! I keep dreaming that I’ll drop the baby or forget to feed it or forget what I named him or something. Where you a nervous wreck before your first? Am I totally normal?

37

Anonymous On Thursday, July 2 at 10:41 pm

well, i have met the man of my dreams and i already know that he’s The One, but it seems as if my friends are rather concerned. they all love him, but think that there’s no way i could know so soon, within a few months. there is just no doubt in my mind and i don’t know what to do, i would marry him tomorrow but i would like to be able to convince them all. am i being silly?

crazy in loveeeeeeeeee.

38

Kettelene On Thursday, July 2 at 10:41 pm

Ree:
Please share with us about Punkette #1 ‘s most recent birthday celebration…..and about what large piece of equipment she was using today! Thanks!

39

Joyce On Thursday, July 2 at 10:41 pm

Have you ever thought about having, or would you like to have, a how-to show a la Martha Stewart?

How many comments do you typically read in a day? Do you secretly live in an alternative universe where every day is 36 hours long?

41

Nancy On Thursday, July 2 at 10:42 pm

Question: if you could go back and change anything about your life – after age 20 – what would you change?

42

Lynn C On Thursday, July 2 at 10:43 pm

I appreciate the humor, warmth, and life-affirming outlook you bring to your blogs. How do you manage to maintain such a positive attitude?

43

Anonymous On Thursday, July 2 at 10:44 pm

You seem to have an exremely emotionally stable life. Would you tell me what kind of father MM is? He seems to me to be emotionally available to your children. Does he sit and talk with them often, give hugs, and play with them? I think that makes a difference with what you are able to do with your life.?.

That’s so weird. My former boss’s older brother was an orthopedic surgeon and they hated each others guts (or bones and muscles…) because of said Big Headitis.

I have baby fever, and my son is only 5 months old. Please tell my ovaries to quit making it so dadgum easy until I recover from lack of sleep.
Thanks.

45

Theresa in Alberta On Thursday, July 2 at 10:44 pm

Dear PW…..
I simply LOVE and ENJOY your blog…Since I am an empty nester with too much time on my hands I like to read all the comments after your postings. HOW HOW HOW do you handle the snarky, critical comments that are sometimes posted that have nothing to do with your confession/writing of the day?? If it was me I would close down the blog and forget the whole the whole thing.

46

Joy On Thursday, July 2 at 10:44 pm

I’m having monster, I mean mother-in-law problems. How do you have a great relationship with yours? Does it come naturally or was there a special class you took? training session? hypnotherapy? I’ll try anything!!! She’s driving me crazy with her controling, manipulating ways. I love her to pieces but I’m in the dog house for something her precious boy did — aka, my husband. I didn’t properly prepare a father’s day celebration for my father-in-law for my hubby to carry out and get all the credit for, unless it doesn’t happen to her liking and now it’s all my fault. Any advice would be helpful! Is there a special dish I could cook to cure her issues? HELP!

I have a baby question! I am 30 years old and have been married to my husband 2 years this November but have been together 7 years. I am DYING for babies. My insides are tickity tocking away. I know darn well that James and I aren’t ready financialy, emotionally and all around just not ready but I don’t know what to do. At work I look at baby items all the times and dream about chubby little mocha babies that are angels! I had a mis-cariage when I was 22 and it messed up my tubes quite a bit and it is pretty un-sure if I can even have children. And I know that the older I get the chances of conception deminish. I am ticking away over here and I don’t know what to do! What advice do you have for me in terms of slowing down that darn clock and helping me with my baby fever???

My question is: How do you handle the Oklahoma heat and humidity? Besides doing all of the cattle work early in the morning. Do you just stay in the house all day?

Growing up in Oklahoma, we could only spend brief spurts outside in the worst heat of the summer. That’s one of the few things I don’t miss about Oklahoma. Idaho may be hot right now, and in our area of Idaho we may get almost as much wind as you, but it’s not nearly as hot or humid as Ponca City.

49

Lisa On Thursday, July 2 at 10:45 pm

When are we going to get another chapter of Black heels to tractor wheels????????

You have such beautiful hair color??????
Do you color your own or professionally done?????????

CAS On Thursday, July 2 at 10:47 pm

Pfsh… I’ve got SIX big brothers… Tell me about it! All I can say is: I feel your pain. And that’s all I can say, of course, because I’m just the dumb little sister, and anything else I might have to say, my six big brothers figured out years ago.

Oh, just jokin’… I love those big lugs.

Most of the time.

Here’s my burning question, dear Liza… I love writing, taking photos, cooking (kind of like someone else I know) but now that we are in the midst of moving and our life is in upheaval, I feel like I can’t keep up on my blog. You obviously have tons of things going on at all times and do a great job posting every day. Any suggestions for me on how to keep up?

55

Candise On Thursday, July 2 at 10:48 pm

Dear AbbRee,

We all have challenges, heartaches, disappointments, and unexpected tragedies. You have mentioned a few; some in more detail than others. How do you cope? What do you do to feel happy on a day when you are less inclined to feel so. Where do you turn for comfort and peace? What is your “therapy” of choice. I feel like you hung the moon most days, and am grateful to have “The Pioneer Woman” as part of my day! Thanks!

Have a great night; and only do the necessary laundry, ok!

Candise

56

Munchiedog On Thursday, July 2 at 10:49 pm

How do you do everything and keep such a positive and humorous attitude?? I find myself becoming a curmudgeon and saying “Why me”??!! (I know the answer.. Why not me.)
(Posted this already in the cooking section) Repeating your daughter’s words.. Ugh… I love you so much__ I don’t know WHY?! Your sense of humor… that’s WHY! Thank you for sharing with all of us.

57

sarah On Thursday, July 2 at 10:49 pm

Dear Ree,

Last year, my boyfriend of seven years broke up with me on the day of my college graduation, which I missed because I had food poisoning. Yeah, seriously.

I just found out today that he has a new girlfriend who is “just like him” and I found out while going engagement ring shopping with my best friend’s boyfriend.

My question is how should I cope with this? My ex hurt me a lot, he was selfish and immature. But I loved him for a long time, and I’m so angry that he found someone new to love him while I’m still single and miserable. Maybe I just need encouraging words more than actual answers…but anyways, help!

I am currently unemployed. ..I know, who isn’t? But I worked at a very good job for 3 years and was top in my department, laid off very unexpectedly. Now I can’t even get an INTERVIEW for a job way below my level of experience! My question is, do you have any advice for standing out exceptionally among the 9.6% unemployed in my state to be able to get a job? And if not, can I come work on your ranch? I am a great rider, know my way around a working farm, and you don’t even have to pay me. I will just be guinea pig for all your recipes.

PS: (I will bring you baby chickens!)

59

NonnieM On Thursday, July 2 at 10:50 pm

Do you ever miss the good old days when you’d post early in the morning, and give away shirts that you found in your drawer, and posters knew each other by name?

60

Sheley On Thursday, July 2 at 10:51 pm

Dear PW-
My father-in-law turns 70 tomorrow and we don’t have a present for him yet! My husband thinks present duty should lie with me and I was just reminded about the fact that we don’t have a present this afternoon. Any ideas? I’m also thinking cake, but I can’t decide between your chocolate sheet cake or the strawberry short-cake cake…..
Help!

My question is about husbands. My husband has a really great job, but isn’t happy and wants to quit move back closer to his family. What does a good wife do? Do I support a good job for our four kids or my husband’s happiness.

62

kelly On Thursday, July 2 at 10:54 pm

Please tell me PW how is it possible to work and provide a well cooked family meal each evening? I am crock-potting everyone to death….send creative culinary wisdom please.

How does one get a book deal? I think I have a very interesting story to tell but I’m a terrible storyteller and proofreader. If a publisher and a ghostwriter would fall into my lap I think I could make a go at it. Does that ever happen?

Dearest PW,
Last summer my husband and I had a very quick and small wedding. His family lives in Azores and was unable to attend. In just a month, my husband and I are going to vacation in Azores and stay with his family for a few weeks. Which means I will finally be meeting his family… and that scares me. They all speak Portuguese… and I most definitely do not. So, my question to you P-Dub… is, I know I should bring a gift of some sort. Right? But, I have no clue what. Help me! Please! And any other meeting the extended family advice would be greatly appreciated as well!

Given your homeschooling experience, have you ever thought about turning your farm into a summer camp? Sorta like http://tcsfarm.com/index.htm one? As a crazy suburbanite kid, it was a pretty nifty way to get to chill in the country for a week, and hey, you’d get some free labor!

67

LanaSmile On Thursday, July 2 at 10:58 pm

I host lots of parties and get togethers. I like it. I like to cook a lot. I like to eat. Well. So cooking for folks and eating is good. But once, just once, I would love it if someone would invite ME over and cook for ME. No one ever invites me/us to parties. Is no one else throwing parties and having get-togethers? Or am I just not in the IN group? Am I doing something wrong? If I want to celebrate the 4th of July I must throw the shin-dig myself. How in heaven’s name can I get invited to a hoo-haw that I don’t have to host?

Signed,
Feeling insecure and rejected and too tired to throw another shin-dig

69

Nicole On Thursday, July 2 at 10:59 pm

Ree, Am I a terrible mom for buying my kid Mario Kart for his Wii and letting him start playing it at almost 11 PM? He is 7 and supposed to go trout fishing with his dad in the morning…HHOOO HHHHAAAAA HEEEEEEE have fun tomorrow with Mr. Crabby pants daddy!

70

Woodsie On Thursday, July 2 at 11:00 pm

Dear Abb… er, Pioneer Woman,
We are having Firecracker Shrimp sometime this weekend after we tire of eating BBQ brisket. I sent an email to my husband and asked him to pick up the hot sauce on his way home tonight, but told him that I wasn’t too sure about it since really spicey stuff burns out my nose hairs. He sent me this link:http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/20/dining/20united.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=rooster sauce&st=cse&scp=1

The most important fact to me in this entire article is:
“From 1975 onward, Mr. Tran made sauces from peppers grown by his older brother on a farm just beyond Long Binh, a village north of what was then Saigon. The most popular was an oil-based sauce, perfumed by galangal, a pungent relative of ginger. (Mr. Tran intended it as a dip for beef plucked from bowls of pho, it was more popular as a sauce for roasted dog.) ” I’m so SORRY that I read this and I just had to share it with someone else!!!

The article does say that once he reached America, Mr. Tran hoped that Americans would use his sauce on their HOT DOGS and Hamburgers.

My question is how do I get the awful thought of people eating their pet dogs (or any canine, for that matter) out of my mind? Help me, please!

Moving on….Do you watch So You Think You Can Dance??? The red headed, cute dimples, ballerina reminds me of you. Did you see her performance on point last night? A-mazing! What is that thing called a pa ta doe…I know I just butchered that. If you do watch, who are your favorites??

How cool is it for your punks to drive trucks? Tell your oldest daughter I’m proud of her for driving the stick. I love driving a stick shift too. I love you and wonder if I’ll ever win one of your drawings? I keep trying and trying and trying and am convinced one day I will.

73

momto6motwins On Thursday, July 2 at 11:02 pm

Dear Ree- I have to start by saying I love your site! Now onto my dilemma. I have trouble saying no to anyone except my dear hubby. I get stuck in the stickiest situations sometimes! Like tonight for instance. I bake for my families farm market however, when my great aunt called crying asking me to bake 4 pies for her at 10:00 pm do I say no. Nope…so tonight after diapering, feeding, and putting my 6 mo twin boys to bed I have baked & decorated 15 dozen cookies, 3 dozen cupcakes, & 4 pies. Help! I don’t know how to say no! Any suggestions?!!!

Overwhelmed Momma who can’t say “NO!”
PS-anything I can do for you before I learn to say no?

i have animal fur that seems to be growing all over my carpet. I vacuum it one evening and by the next morning, it’s growing again. I’ve tried to sit my 4 cats and 1 dog down and interrogating them under very bright lights, but nobody wants to be the narc. Any advice?

Fur-ustrated

—-

Also… who is the publisher of your cookbook and when’s it going to be out??

75

marci On Thursday, July 2 at 11:02 pm

PW, My husband and I celebrate 10 years in Oct. I want to plan something but I am on a shoestring budget – so around 1000 hopefully or under. We’ve experienced 8 moves in 10 years, much sadness and loss (2 babies), and I’m now working 2 jobs and homeschooling our 2 kids. Can you give me some ideas???

thanks in advance

76

Theresa in Alberta On Thursday, July 2 at 11:03 pm

Me again…..
All of your relations and friends seem to be very good sports about being blogged on your website. Have you ever ruffled a few feathers ?

Dear Ree – my marriage is in crisis – my husband is out in the driveway working on my car at the moment. It’s dark, there are mosquitos the size of mocking birds, and I’m not sure he knows what he’s doing. I am fighting off an aneurism to not go out there and make suggestions. Should I leave him out there and go to bed?

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Anonymous On Thursday, July 2 at 11:05 pm

Are/were any of your children strong-willed from birth? I am talking about the baby who cries for everything and as they get older want everything their way? I have three girls, the oldest and the youngest are this way (because my middle is a ‘people pleaser’ I tend to think it is more innate than learned).

My question is how do you handle your child(ren) if they have this quality?

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madjonsmom On Thursday, July 2 at 11:06 pm

ok….i see sooooooooooooooo many similarities in my Lt. Forearms and your MM…..not that i want you to go into a great deal of detail (for obvious reasons) but how do you two resolve conflict?

80

Anonymous On Thursday, July 2 at 11:06 pm

So, I have this friend that struggles with depression and it is weighing heavily on me. How do I balance time on the phone counseling her while I balance my responsibilities as a wife. To clarify, I am spending sometimes hours a day (if you add up all the individual phone calls) on the phone counseling her and pointing her to God’s Word. I feel selfish to leave her hanging when she needs counsel, yet I know my ultimate priority is my husband and my home. Any suggestions would be much welcomed

I have a strange question. By strange I mean totally ‘normal’. I have one child, and I have a lot of challenges with her (behavior, really…really…REALLY bad sleep issues) and other things, and I’ve had a few people tell me that having another child can help for various reasons (one being that the 2nd child keeps the first child company). Is this true at all? Or is this total BS? Not that I expect you to plan my family for me, but I am wondering what your personal experience is.

Much Love,
Hannah

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Mid-life crisis bound On Thursday, July 2 at 11:07 pm

Oh, I know you’ve heard this before but I’m going to type it all out anyway. I’m 40 and not happy about it. I’m not married (never have been) and I don’t have kids. I do own a house, 2 cats (well, they own me) and have a good job. I know I’m blessed in so many ways but I feel like my life is missing something. I haven’t had a real relationship in years. I’m ashamed to say how long. I feel like life has passed me by and I’ve forgotten to get married and have kids. Now I want that. I really feel like I’ve squandered my life. I really want to share my life with someone else but I can’t even find a date. People tell me that I’ve got to get out there but I am! Anyway, now the whole “squandered my life” bit is looming large and all I want to do is quit my job, buy a convertible and drive to Portugal. But that’s not possible. Neither is driving to Portugal. Well, from here anyway. Any thoughts, advice, counsel?

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Madgie On Thursday, July 2 at 11:07 pm

Hey Ree!! So it was brought to my attention you don’t really talk about your other brother. Of course I am not talking about Mike. Why is this? Does he perfer not be part of the internet life? Thanks for the P-Dub/Abby Session.

My graphic artist, the wind beneath my wings in helping put together a bimonthly women’s magazine, has recently told me she is looking to move to Montana. I hate to point fingers, but I kind of blame you. Since I introduced her to your site, I’ve caught her wistfully staring at her computer, probably imagining herself with her very own Marlboro man. Now she’s all about big sky, wide open spaces, cattle and cowboys.

Anyway, I’m happy that she’s excited about starting a new adventure, and because she’s an amazing woman I know she’ll find her cowboy, but I’m worried the magazine will suffer without her.

As the time for her to move draws closer, how can I make sure I don’t transfer my worries into bitterness about her leaving me?

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a nnonny mouse On Thursday, July 2 at 11:08 pm

needhelp On Thursday, July 2 at 11:08 pm

I really need help!!!

I have a wedding in a month and I don’t want my dad giving me away. I’m not sure how I can NOT have him give me away without causing tension with a couple of my brothers. I’m not bitter. I’m not hateful. I’ll even tell my dad “I love you”, there’s just a lot of buts to that . . I have lived independently since I was 19. (I’m almost 30). I don’t want to cause hurt feelings in my family, and I don’t think my younger brothers would understand. Should I suck it up for the day and do something that would make me VERY uncomfortable just . . because?

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Mary S On Thursday, July 2 at 11:09 pm

to #11 Amanda. In the wordsof Dirty Harry…”Are you feeling lucky?” I ask this because in most cases home birth is a wonderful thing, but , there are the exceptions, and what if you are one of those exceptions? When things go wrong, they can go wrong very quickly…and I would want the neonatal ICU very nearby if something went wrong. My suggestion…a midwife delivery..in a good hospital that has a NICU. If you don’t have any problems , you’ll have a great midwife delivery, but you will be prepared if you need an emergency C-section..or more intense care. I am an RN, and I went to the hospital. I had no problems at all…but I wanted the backup. By the way…an epidural is a divine invention.

What’s the most ridiculous, groaner appliance you ever bought, and how long did it take you to figure out it wasn’t practical, easy to use, or charming to look at?

For instance: in the nineties, I wanted, and got, a Topsy Tail. Okay, that’s more of a TV product. And Ree, it didn’t topsy my tail very effectively, Ree. I also had a crimper, but that was kind of cool, so I don’t regret that. I do regret buying a strange Asian whisk-like ladle thing. I think it’s for Asian noodles. I never make Asian food at home. I don’t regret my immersion blender, I love it. I also don’t regret Pedi-Paws. But I do regret a cookie spritzer gizmo I have and have never used.

What about you?

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Sarah On Thursday, July 2 at 11:11 pm

You wanna be best friends? Just kidding………you’re awesome, though!!

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Diane On Thursday, July 2 at 11:12 pm

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Dorothy M. Bassett On Thursday, July 2 at 11:12 pm

To Loreina {#12}
I swear I have an old dog named Petie that doesen’t listen to me either. I had a glass (or 3) of wine with a friend one day on the back veranda (porch).
My friend Bette Ann said, “I do believe Petie is deaf”. BINGO
We are now making the rounds of all our friends and their animals. They let us diagnois but we can’t give medicine.
I think your old boy may have a hearing problem.
Your welcome. Dr. Dottie

I love taking pictures of all my baked goods for my blog, but I always end up with a camera covered in dough and flour and sugar. How do you keep yours clean?

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Susan in NV On Thursday, July 2 at 11:13 pm

Nearest and Dearest P Dub,

Why does my husband leave every-single-cupboard-door-that-he-touches open? And why does he leave every light on after he leaves the room? OK, maybe I can deal with the light thing…but the doors, ugh! We live on a ranch, in the desert, “Hello! Dust!” I don’t understand. Do I need to chill or does he need to learn to close the daggum doors? Save our marriage, oh wise one.

Dusting in Nevada.

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michelle On Thursday, July 2 at 11:14 pm

What is your favorite kitchen utensil/cookware of all time?

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Woodsie On Thursday, July 2 at 11:14 pm

I posted (I thought) a rather lengthy question (#69), yet it’s not there. How did that happen? What should I do to keep that from happening again? The only thing I can think of is typing everything in Word and then copying and pasting into the Comment box, but that’s no fun.

Dear Ree,
Every time my husband handles something, it doesn’t get handled. Unfortunately my ‘interfering’ is not welcome. What would you suggest for getting his rear in gear??

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Mary S On Thursday, July 2 at 11:16 pm

#83 Guess what ? This is your life…all yours. If your Dad makes you uncomfortable, have courage, and choose someone close to you. “Sucking it up” applies to eating chicken …when you really prefer fish. This is obviously important to you…so act for yourself. By the way, your brothers are not getting married..so they will have to “suck it up”

I have to agree on the last one… I was always looking for a serious relationship, and had many long relationships. Once I decided it was time for me to focus on my job and being alone, I found my husband… well he found me, and I turned him away a few times, but he stuck to it, and we are now married 2 years and have a beautiful 4 1/2 month old daughter Best decision of my life – he is truly my soulmate!

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Saturday, April 4: Freezer Fundamentals! While ranch work is going on outside, freezer work is going on inside! I share four more of my favorite freezer basics, which can be made into a whole bunch of different meals.